What Causes Vaginal Spotting In A Sexually Active Person?

Posted on Wed, 24 Aug 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 24 Aug 2016 Answered on

Tue, 20 Sep 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : I normally have regular, heavy, painful periods. I had spotting one week prior to this period and a very light period with no pain but on schedule. Pregnancy probable? I have not yet taken a test but was sexually active in the weeks prior.

Answered by Dr. Timothy Raichle (8 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Pregnancy is a possibility

Detailed Answer:
In a reproductive age woman (i.e. who is still having regular cycles), who is having unprotected intercourse, pregnancy has to be ruled out first.

Bleeding in early pregnancy is common. We believe that it is related to implantation of the pregnancy into the wall of the uterus. Usually this occurs about 2-4 weeks after conception. It might also be mistaken for a 'lighter period'.

What you are describing is extremely suspicious for a possible pregnancy. A test will turn positive about two weeks after conception, that is if you have indeed conceived.

Let me know if this helps!

Dr. Tim

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D